Generics
Founded in 1986, Generics has been functioning, following a hybrid business model: on one hand, it acts as a technical advisory service company, remaining in close touch with the market. On the other hand, it acts as an incubator aimed at turning selected home-grown business ideas into independent companies, which are eventually sold in a trade sale; it thus functions as a “start up factory”. Since the firm’s foundation, well over 20 such firms have been “spun out” in this way. In addition, Generics makes early stage investments in start ups active in areas, which are familiar to Generics, so as to re-enforce its knowledge base and network in the markets. Overall, Generics does focus on one thing: creating value from technical innovation, drawing on various vehicles to do so. Stressing that the crucial mission of business creation and growth is increasingly entrusted to the R&D function of technology companies, the case discusses the issues raised by this unusual business model, particularly as the company gets ready to become public, late in 2001: what are the pros and cons of such a move? how does the investment community see this business model? what are the implications of such a drastic change?
Cranfield University
Wharley End Beds MK43 0JR, UK
Tel +44 (0)1234 750903
Email [email protected]
Harvard Business School Publishing
60 Harvard Way, Boston MA 02163, USA
Tel (800) 545-7685 Tel (617)-783-7600
Fax (617) 783-7666
Email [email protected]
NUCB Business School
1-3-1 Nishiki Naka
Nagoya Aichi, Japan 460-0003
Tel +81 52 20 38 111
Email [email protected]
IMD retains all proprietary interests in its case studies and notes. Without prior written permission, IMD cases and notes may not be reproduced, used, translated, included in books or other publications, distributed in any form or by any means, stored in a database or in other retrieval systems. For additional copyright information related to case studies, please contact Case Services.
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
The China Resources Beer (CR Beer) case study is a compelling narrative of the world’s largest beer producer by volume under the leadership of CEO Hou Xiaohai. In 2016 CR Beer embarked on a pivotal transformation journey. This case study offers cr...
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
in I by IMD 5 February 2025
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
in I by IMD 3 February 2025
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
in I by IMD Brain Circuits 28 January 2025
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
in I by IMD 28 January 2025
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications